At the end of Semester 2 EU faculties host their annual getaways, where they fellowship together, learn from God’s word and celebrate 2023. Scroll down to hear what a few of them got up to this year and pray for them!

Arts SW – Matilda

The Arts and Social Work Faculty went to Gerringong for our Faculty Days Away. We had a great time together, reflecting on this year, spending time in God’s word, and having fun. We heard talks on the theme of making wise decisions. I’m super thankful for the reminder that making decisions is not a burden for us but a gift from God. We have freedom in Christ to make decisions wisely!

Education – Jemima

For the Education Faculty’s Days Away we went to Castlereagh conference centre in Penrith over the mid-semester break and we spent some time thinking about what it means to rest as God’s people with a particular focus on Hebrews 4. It was great to spend time with fellow brothers and sisters playing games, singing praises to God, enjoying time of fellowship and thinking deeply about God’s eternal rest and how this should shape our lives now.

As Paddy gave the talks on Hebrews 4 I learned that our souls and bodies long for true, peaceful, rejuvenating rest but we can be afraid to slow down, as we can feel too comfortable in our busy lives. Yet by slowing down and resting, we are forced to remind ourselves that God is always in control of our lives and that we are finite. It actually helps us to remember the God who made us, bring glory to Him and ultimately, be in awe of who He is! So, I left feeling pretty challenged about whether I prioritise rest which reminds me of the eternal rest that is to come when Jesus returns.

BizLaw – Nic

For the BizLaw Days Away we headed to Loftus down near Sutherland. Our Howie Andrew spoke on sex, marriage, singleness & dating. In particular we learnt that marriage is from creation and singleness points us towards the new creation.

Design – Lydia

Design faculty stayed in a lovely house in Katoomba to hear about living wisely in the world. We were challenged by the idols we hold in our intentions for the future and encouraged to build our lives with Jesus as the foundation. Super thankful for the time to bond as a faculty, enjoying views, roasting marshmallows, cooking together, playing Mariokart and card games, and for the chance to really consider the trajectory of our lives.

Engineering – Jody

Engo spent 3 days at Crosslands, a campsite where we could unwind in nature and enjoy God’s creation. We delved into the topic of idolatry and its roots in believing lies that God isn’t enough for us. We were thankful for being able to wrap up the year together and celebrate how God’s faithfulness and provision is more than enough!

Health – Laura

The Health students went away for a 3 day retreat to look at the topic of rest in Hebrews 4. Praise God for teaching in God’s word, electives on productivity, people-pleasing and lament, and a fun medieval theme night. Such a joy to enjoy fellowship together and to reflect on the year that’s passed. My personal highlight was hearing from students who resolved to commit enough time for rest and service of God’s people. 

Thank God for this precious time away together.

Please pray that everything that has been learned will sink deeply into the hearts of students and the culture of the faculties.
Please pray for each of the faculties as they prayerfully prepare for 2024!